Jay Z and Beyoncé turn vegan

Entertainer Beyonce performs on stage during "The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour" at the Barclays Center on August 3, 2013 in New York, New York. Beyonce wears a printed halter with a tiered skirt and shoes by Kenzo and hosiery by Capezio. Wireimage/ Getty Images

Jay Z and Beyoncé are going vegan until Christmas Day.

The rapper, who turns 44 on December 4, and his pop star wife
have set themselves a 22-day challenge after being inspired by a
close friend to give up meat and dairy products.

Jay Z wrote on his Life and Times blog: "Psychologists have said
it takes 21 days to make or break a habit. On the 22nd day, you've
found the way.

"On December 3, one day before my 44th birthday I will embark on
a 22 Days challenge to go completely vegan, or as I prefer to call
it, plant-based!

"This all began a few months back when a good friend and vegan
challenged me to embrace a 'plant-based breakfast' everyday. It was
surprisingly easier on me than I thought."

The Holy Grail star said there was something "spiritual" about
his 44th birthday coupled with the fact that the challenge ends on
Christmas Day.

Jay Z added: "It just feels right! So you can call it a
spiritual and physical cleanse. I will post my progress. Any
professional vegans out there that have any great food spots please
help out! Please! I don't know what happens after Christmas. A
semi-vegan, a full plant-based diet? Or just a spiritual and
physical challenge? We'll see."

As vegans the couple should also avoid animal-derived garments,
including fur, wool and leather, although Beyonce, 32, was spotted
wearing wool and leather while visiting a vegan eatery Real Food
Daily in West Hollywood this week.